Question:
I have a question about Pouch Rules for Dummies!

I read this last night, and at first thought it was great, but then I became a little wary. First of all it's copyrighted 1980, the year I was born! Hasn't a lot changed since then? I notice that he is referring to the pouch NOT being transected from the distal stomach, which most surgeons don't do anymore. Does this make a difference? Also, a lot of what he writes is the exact opposite of what my surgeon told me. For instance he suggests eating an entire meal between 5-15 minutes, where my surgeon says 30-45 minutes. I know right now, there is no physical way I could eat an entire meal that fast without getting sick, but he does stress that this is for post-ops six months and on. He also mentions gulping water, whereas everyone has told me to sip sip sip! Can anyone tell me if these are still viable rules, or if a lot has changed since then? Does anyone follow them religiously, if so how was your progress? Thanks!    — Deborah W. (posted on December 12, 2001)

December 12, 2001
I think it is a "decide for yourself" kind of thing. His "rules" are about middle of the road from my own surgeon's. My doc wants you to eat in 20 to 30 minutes and not drink for a half hour following meals. I will eat in 20 and wait an hour and a half to drink. Waiting longer certainly can't hurt anything. As for the gulping water, you are only supposed to do that right before meals. He does say that the gulping is only to water load 15 minutes before meals. I've noticed that every doc seems to have different rules. Maybe you could take the article to your doc and get his opinion.
   — Tina P.

December 12, 2001
I had the same concerns. I spoke to my nutritionist about it and she only agreed with half of the information. I use it as a loose guideline and take it with a grain of salt. The only reason I still have the article is because I am an information pack-rat. You never know when you want to refer to some information.
   — Janet C.

December 12, 2001
There are several versions of "The Rules...", my version says that it applies to those who are over one year post-op. I think that's why there are variances between "The Rules..." and what our surgeons have told us. I'm nearly four years post-op and hadn't lost any weight in two years, actually, I had gaine 15lbs. I was compliant with my doc's instructions. I assumed my weight had stabilized at 35lbs. away from my goal. I tried following "The Rules" and lo and behold when I do everything as suggested, I lose 1-2lbs. a week! At my stage, that's almost a miracle! That water loading really works for me. I think's it can be very beneficial for long term post-ops who need a little help. For the first time in two years, I'm not discouraged. I really believe that I can hit my goal by next September.
   — [Anonymous]